Evolution of the Vanilla Shine

This gorgeous cocktail is the newest creation of Amber Marci Austen, mixologist at Shine Nightclub, located in the Shelborne Hotel in Miami Beach.

The cocktail is the result of her creative collaboration with Shine managing partners Gerry Kelly and Jonathan Cowan and publicist Tara Solomon. Kelly wanted something elegant, yet trendy. Cowan wanted something funky, yet tasteful. They wanted a drink that represented South Beach and satisfied the appetite for indulgence, a drink to be sipped while mingling with the posh crowds of SoBe.

“The Vanilla Shine martini is deliciously savvy, with a black sugar rim and milky white color,” says Austen. “I focused on flavors that are voluptuous and sophisticated—what better than Frangelico, vanilla, and Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur. The Vanilla Shine martini represents Shine Nightclub and its vibrant cliental.”

Creating cocktails is Austen’s specialty. She has worked with the Greater Miami CVB to create a signature drink that represented Miami nightlife for a Visit Florida campaign. She has also been head bartender for the NBA Miami Heat. She moved to Miami six years ago, she says, to finish college and “to become a top bartender in South Beach and establish a name for myself as a beverage mixologist. It excites me to work with liquor reps and beverage connoisseur to create a drink that is not just a cocktail but also a statement.”

Vanilla Shine

1 ½  ounce of Absolut Vanilla
½  ounce of Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur
½  ounce of Frangelico
Dash of cream

Shack till frothy. Serve in a martini glass with a black sugar rim. Garnish with a white orchid and vanilla bean

Edited by Patricia D. Sherman

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